Sparta Area Schools Superintendent explains what facilities referendum can bring if passed in November

SPARTA, Wis. (WKBT) -- Improvements could be on the way for THE Sparta Area School District.

In November, people living in Monroe and Jackson counties will be voting on a facilities referendum. If it passes, multiple district buildings will be impacted, and Sparta High School could see the most changes.

"The original structure is structurally challenged right now," Superintendent Sam Russ said. "We feel the best way to address that challenge and have the least disruption to the learning environment is to look to build a two-story addition on the northeast side."

The new addition would contain new classrooms and its library. The compromised part of the building would get demolished.

"Sparta High School's 1962 walls are structurally challenged. We've addressed them the best we can. It is all safe however we feel now is the time to do that," Russ said.

The district wants to get rid of the old tennis courts and replace it with a parking lot. They also want to demolish its current welding and metals shop and build a new tech ed shop attached to the building.

At Meadowview Middle School, the plan is to have a more efficient and secure entrance.

"Visitors have two options. We send them to one however once you enter the building you don't have to immediately report to the office," Russ said.

At Southside Early Learning Center, the goal is to move its bus drop off and pick up closer to the building, where it would be safer for students.

Funding for the $87 million referendum would come from taxpayers.

"This will raise taxes. The debt portion of the school district's portion of the tax bill would increase by about 12 cents. That means on a $1000,000 home you're looking at a $12 increase on your annual property tax," said Russ.

After an operational referendum failed in 2022, closing Cataract Elementary School, Russ says communication is key to get this one passed.

"A lot of times people might not have understood the referendum whether it's operating or facilities so it's really putting on the district's back," Russ said. "We're going to go to the people, we're going to explain our why in as many ways as possible."

The referendum would also update equipment and major building systems identified to be in poor condition. This includes new windows, classroom cabinets, flooring and ceiling. Russ says depending on the project, some changes can be made within a few years while others could be longer.

There will be informational sessions. The first one is on Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. at Sparta High School.

This would also be the district's second referendum this year. Voters approved a two-year, $1.5 million operating referendum in April.

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